During this weeks class, we discussed the importance of strategic sourcing. Strategic sourcing is an institutional procurement process that continuously improves and re-evaluates the purchasing activities of a company. This strategy is used to optimize an organization’s supply base and pick companies best optimal options. Also, we touched upon E-procurement, how the impact on technology changes our way of buying.

Exchange rates- the value of one currency for the purpose of conversion to another

Design Collaboration capability – is a business strategy, work process and collection of software applications that facilitates different organizations to work together on the development of a product.

On time performance is a measure of the ability of transport services to be on time.
The supply chain flexibility is defined as the speed in which the supply chain responds to changes in demand and the business environment.
Inbound logistics refers to the transport, storage and delivery of goods coming into a business.

Replenishment Lead Time: total time it takes from the moment a product should be reordered until it’s available on the shelf
On-Time Performance: expresses a percentage of amount of times a product is delivery on time compared to all times; the higher the better
Supply Flexibility: ability to easily increase/decrease production in response to changes in customer demand
Delivery Frequency / Minimum Lot Size: minimum procurement quantity of a receipt
Supply Quality: ability to deliver goods/services that fully satisfy customer needs and any external regulations
Inbound Transportation Cost: fees related to the delivery of goods into a business; equal or exceeds the combined costs of warehousing, order entry, & customer service as % of sales

Pricing Terms – an agreed price in a contract often stating how it has been calculated
Supplier Viability – combination of the vendor’s inherent riskiness and their firm’s tolerance for supplier-related risk
Information Coordination Capability – a strategic objective using strategic management of information from outside or internal sources
Design Collaboration Capability – A business strategy work process and collection of software applications that facilitates different organizations to work together on the development of a product.
Exchange Rates, Taxes, Duties – can be levied on certain goods, services or transactions enforced by law

On-time performance – The level of success of a service remaining on the published schedule

Supplier Viability – The combination of the supplier’s riskiness and their financial stability

Supply Quality – ability to have enough goods or services to satisfy the needs

Inbound transportation cost – the transport, storage and delivery of goods coming into a business.

Exchange Rates, Taxes, Duties – is the sum of the costs associated with the processes to Plan, Source, Deliver, and Return and is calculated as Sales – Profits -Cost to Serve (e.g., marketing, selling, administrative). Also, it does not include customer invoicing/accounting costs.

Replenishment Lead Time: is the duration in working days sufficient to procure or produce any (reasonable) quantity of material.
On-Time Performance: is a measure of the ability of transport services to be on time.
Supply Flexibility: the speed in which the supply chain responds to changes in demand and the business environment.
Delivery Frequency/Minimum Lot Size: how often each delivery takes/the minimum quantity of an item ordered for delivery on a specific date or manufactured in a single production run.
Supply Quality: Confidence in a supplier’s ability to deliver a good or service that will satisfy the customer’s needs.
Inbound Transportation Cost: the cost of the transport, storage and delivery of goods coming into a business.

Hi professor. This is a copy from another comment.
Replenishment Lead Time – the amount of time it takes for the product to be restocked
• On-Time Performance – how capable a supplier is able to meet its scheduled time.
• Supply Flexibility – the mobility to increase or decrease your production according to demand.
• Delivery Frequency /
Minimum Lot Size – The frequency of a delivery.
• Supply Quality – the amount of time the shipment came undamaged and your ability to monitor statistics of supply.
• Inbound Transportation Cost – the cost of delivering shipments into a business.
Patrick, Yiwen, Scarlett, Vanessa, and Frank, and Aulyoung.

Delivery frequency can help inventory levels be reduced while assisting in the progress of the overall delivery. Full loads of single products being carried helps with the unit cost of transportation being reduced but the true cost may be hidden.

Min lot size is procurement’s minimum quantity, with this receipts can be created. Receipts will then only be created with a procurement quantity that cannot be lowered than the defined size.

Replenishment Lead Time – the amount of time it takes for the product to be restocked
• On-Time Performance – how capable a supplier is able to meet its scheduled time.
• Supply Flexibility – the mobility to increase or decrease your production according to demand.
• Delivery Frequency /
Minimum Lot Size – The frequency of a delivery.
• Supply Quality – the amount of time the shipment came undamaged and your ability to monitor statistics of supply.
• Inbound Transportation Cost – the cost of delivering shipments into a business.
Patrick, Yiwen, Scarlett, Vanessa, and Frank, and Aulyoung.

During week 8, Professor Beaver spent quite some time discussing the Hulu case study. During this time, we talked about how firms are affected by digital technology. For Hulu, digital technology creates low barriers to entry, new avenues of distribution, new competitors, and many more. We also discussed how digital channels put pressure on existing business models. For example, when referring to Advertisers, digital channels have resulted in fewer time slots available for ads, putting pressure on advertisers to be more direct and creative with the content they put out.
We then moved on to talk about eFullfillment and Distribution. Professor Beaver stressed the importance of the difference between a function and a process. A function is an operation/group who perform related tasks routinely to achieve a part of an organization’s mission, and a process is a series of logically related activities/tasks performed together to produce a defined set of results.

This week with Professor Beaver, we learned about e-Delivery and e-Fulfillment. First, we discussed the difference between a business process vs a business function. A function is an operation or group who perform related tasks routinely to achieve a part of an organization’s mission. A process is a series of logically related activities or tasks performed together to produce a defined set of results.

Then we moved on to learn that e-Fulfillment is not just the delivery of goods and services online, but it is a set of distribution strategies to deliver faster and incur the lowest possible cost. Improving the use of information and leveraging resources are the two core principles of e-Fulfillment. e-Fulfillment guarantees on-time delivery, quality of delivery, no damage to goods, accuracy, low-cost, tracking, and fast delivery.

In this week I’ve learned that eFulfillment is a set of distribution strategies that helps deliver faster and incur the lowest possible cost. It has many value- added services like real time inventory visibility, real-time package-tracking capabilities, and single consolidated shipments. EFulfillment demands high customer expectations and faster on-time delivery, which can be big challenges to overcome. I also learned the core principles of eDistribution include improving the use of information with logistics postponement and dematerialization and leveraging existing resources with clicks and mortar existing delivery services and leveraged shipments. Dematerialization is when companies replace physical material flow with information flow and shifting the reliance on products to by leveraging information.

During Week #8, The class went over the Hulu case study after the presentation was over. The success of Hulu was due to its competencies in streaming and providing real-time content. The TV industry struggle in providing to the consumers what Hulu and Netflix have been able to do. There are a crazy amount of contents online since anyone with a phone can have access to the creation of entertainment and have control over how they choose to stream their contents. One class concept I found interesting was merging in transit during the transportation process. This is something used by Amazon, which helps make room in the central warehouse since the trucks would not need to stop by the warehouse to drop off and reroute but rather, the merging of the shipments happen during the transit. Merging in transit helps companies with its timing and better manages the complexity.

I enjoyed this class and the opportunity to meet Edward Beaver. It was interesting to learn of his experiences helping companies integrate technology within their operations, such as what he detailed with Rohm and Haas. I remembered another MIS Professor, Mart Doyle, explaining how he was involved in the same process. Interestingly enough this is how these two individuals made acquaintance.
Another aspect of this lecture that stuck out for me is the mentioning of Peapod and the e-fulfillment model. Interning with Giant Food Stores this past summer has given me a lot of insight into the operations of this model and the associated difficulties that come with it. I valued the time and what I learned from Mr. Beaver during this weeks session.

This week, the guest lecturer went into great detail discussing the Hulu case, and their specific brand of disruption in the creative industry through their approach to content distribution and management. After going through the case specifics, we learned about about how the digital space is similarly disrupting and impacting fulfillment and distribution within supply chains, ultimately leading to the end user or customer. One topic that was particularly interesting to me was the selection of the location of warehouses, to minimize delivery time and optimize working relationships between entities within an organization or within a supply chain. The case for data-conscious approaches to supply chain location optimization strengthens as the scale of shipment grows, such as in a country as large as the US.

During this weeks lecture, we discussed the Hulu case as well as e-fulfillment and how it works. One interesting aspect of e-fulfillment is that it is not just delivery or goods or services. It also incorporates the specific distribution strategies that e-fulfillment uses. As expected, there are costs and benefits from e-fulfillment. Some benefits are high, real-time visibility of orders, multiple delivery options, and real-time tracking capabilities. Some of the “costs” are high customer expectations, on-time delivery, and order/delivery complexity. Altogether I believe e-fulfillment has yet to reach its full potential and the future of e-fulfillment looks extremely promising.

During week 8, we focused on understanding core eFulfillment principles, e-distribution strategies, and designing distribution networks. EFulfillment aims to improve the use of information and leverage resources to deliver faster and incur the lowest cost. E-Distribution aims to leverage existing resources(existing delivery services, storefronts) to improve the use of information. The process of designing distribution network performance is evaluated based upon customer needs being met, at what cost are their needs met, and the tradeoffs that exist between them.

In the past class, we learned about eFulfillment principles, strategies, and designing distribution networks. EFulfillment uses key information provided in tracking to make deliveries faster and more successful. However, it comes at a price, the benefits are high, such as real-time visibility of orders, multiple delivery options, and real-time tracking capabilities. E-Distribution aims to improve resources with the use of key information. E-fulfillment is all about time and money. The main focus is delivery and without getting the deliveries on time a store or company will not profit. There are high consumer expectations and if these are not met then the company loses revenue due to the lack of time management on the distribution end.

In class 8 with Professor Beaver, we dug deep into the Hulu case and learned about e-fulfillment. I found the Hulu case very interesting because, I know myself and probably most of my classmates use Hulu regularly and it was cool to see how Hulu actually started and where it obtains its material from. We learned that e-fulfilment means delivery and that it can come in many forms weather it be in the form of shopping at a store or delivery right to your home. We also learned that there is a considerable amount of strategy when talking about e-fulfilment. The goal is to implement e-fulfilment strategically so it drives down costs and makes the delivery as fast as possible. E-fulfilment should also be used in a way in which it leverages resources and improves the flow and use of information.

In this week’s class, Group 5 presented the Hulu case we had to complete and then we went over everything as a whole. Professor Beaver described in great detail Hulu’s case and their specific brand of disruption in the creative industry. Through their approach in management as well as content distribution, we were able to examine and have a better understanding of how firms that are in creative industries are affected by digital technology in various ways. This includes how they differentiate their content, and target different groups. the discussion also opened up the topic of creating new avenues of distribution. A couple of distribution strategies discussed were, having fast delivery and keeping costs as low as possible. We also talked about e-fulfillment and how it complements these strategies by having many value-added services like real-time package-tracking capabilities, real-time inventory visibility, and single consolidated shipments. It was really cool to see how companies have quickly adapted to the use of technology.

Hulu Case
It was interesting to learn more about the supply chain needs and operations from a technology service’s perspective. Because Netflix and Hulu offer intangible goods and services, their supply chain focuses on digital content acquisition and distribution. The aspects of the supply chain that can be controlled include content, distribution methods, device medium, and application. Hulu competes in a very competitive environment, so it is crucial that their supply chain adapts to the new technology trends and consumer preferences. Successful sustainability derives from management strategy informed by insightful business knowledge, timely decisions, and excellent execution.

This week we discussed the Hulu case in detail and guest Professor Edward Beaver taught us about efulfillment and distribution. I thought it was interesting that efulfillment is not just the delivery of goods and services online, and we learned that the 2 core principles were to improve the use of information and leverage resources. I worked closely with fulfillment in my last operations internship and found a lot of the topics related closely with my work there. We were constantly making sure shipments were correct and damage free, we also worked with Amazon who has their own set of regulations to make sure orders are sent on time and follow packaging standards. We also discussed dematerialization, DVD, and designs for distribution networks.

Professor Beaver helped me understand the supply chain of a digital e-commerce company, like Hutu. His explanation helped me realize the multi-layered relationship between content acquisition and distribution. It is interesting know how supply chain management translates over from different forms of marketplaces like the digital entertainment industry.

In Week 8 we worked with Professor Beaver on the Hulu Case and delved into the technicalities of running the supply chain for a company that does not have tangible goods but they still must utilize an efficient digital supply chain to be successful. This is the business environment of the future and if new and growing companies want to compete with companies like Netflix or Hulu they must understand that the E-supply chain is still a crucial part of success in the industry. After learning about the specific case study Professor Beaver taught us about e-fulfillment and e distribution strategies and the methods of both. With technology constantly changing I found this topic very interesting to think about in terms of future advancement and the possibilities for these fields in the near future.

In week 8, Professor Beaver was talking about the Hulu Case. Also he talked about the e-fulfillment. For me personally, I used Hulu a lot in case that’s free.Hulu has had some considerable success in the US by offering live TV in addition to streaming. This positions the service as much more of a competitor to traditional cable companies than Netflix is. Hulu has the opportunity to stream channels from the likes of Disney, Fox and NBC which are all shareholders in the streaming company. Netflix has always avoided live TV. Many have suggested the service would look to show sports at some point, giving it the potential to access even more potential subscribers. However the economics of sport would make this costly, and would either end up being an add-on for an additional charge, or would result in a price increase for all subscribers.

In week 8, we had the pleasure of welcoming Professor Beaver to our internet and supply chain class. We went into a very in-depth discussion of the Hulu Case study. It was very interesting hearing the class’s opinions on streaming services and usage of streaming platform. There are many variables to take into account when trying to decide the best streaming service for one’s usage. Ultimately the class seemed to use Netflix the most and values cost of streaming service the most. Overall I enjoyed having Professor Beaver in class as I found it nice hearing a new opinions and ideas when talking about delivering a digital service through internet enabled platforms.

During week 8 we had professor Beaver go over the Hulu case study as well as eDistribution and Efullfillment. The first part we talked about was the differences between a business process and a business function, the function is the group that performs the task and the process is the steps of logically related activities. When we talked about eFullfillment we discussed that it is a distribution strategy that helps to get the lowest cost and a faster delivery. We also talked about eDistribution which improves the use of information and it leverages the current existing resources. We talked about dematerialization which is the material flow cost such as loading, unloading, handling, shipping, returns, etc.

This week we had a guest lecture from Professor Beaver. During the class we covered our Hulu case study. We also discussed the topics of eFullfillment and e Distribution. Before the discussion, I believed eFullfillment was as simple as just the delivery of services and goods online. I found it interesting to learn that it is actually much more than that, and involves distribution strategies with the goal of lower costs and faster deliveries. This is accomplished through the better use of information and leveraging of resources.

During this week, we went over the Hulu case and also talked about eDistribution and eFulfillment. I found the Hulu case study to be very interesting and I learned a lot about acquisition and distribution of digital content. Prior to this case study, I didn’t know much about how Hulu or Netflix managed their supply chain of digital content so it was interesting to dive into this topic. In addition to this, I learned that e-fulfilment is the delivery of a product/service at the lowest possible cost and in the fastest possible time. I also learned that E-distribution is meant to improve the use of information and to leverage existing resources. Distribution networks are evaluated on whether 1) customers needs are met and 2) how much it cost to meet those needs.

This week we learned about efullfillment and the strategies used. We also learned about distribution networks and what elements factor into decisions designing the network. Response time, product availability, and product variety all influence the design network. We discussed the Hulu case in great length and we learned that digital content can also be a part of a supply chain. TV shows and movies are highly sought after for online streamers and working with major networks is key to the success of a platform.

During this week’s message we talked about the Hulu case and how digital goods and services require a different supply chain that traditional goods. We talked about trends in the industry and how Hulu and other competitors are dealing with this.I found it interesting that Hulu basically has three different types of customers: users, content creators, and advertisers. I think that people tend to think of users as the only customers, but all three are required for the business to work.

Last week, we discussed the Hulu case that was due with Professor Beaver, along with eFulfillment and eDistribution. We discussed these terms with the Hulu case because Hulu runs a supply chain of intangible goods, and just because a company does not manufacture and ship physical goods doesn’t mean they don’t implement a supply chain. By definition, eFulfillment is the process of receiving and shipping orders for goods through e-commerce and eDistribution is the concept of electronic buying and selling over a public server without the use of physical media. This usually refers to a purchase sent to a customer’s device by downloading it straight from the internet. When we discussed eFulfillment, we talked about how its very inexpensive and fast compared to other distribution strategies. As technology changes and advances over time, eFulfillment and eDistribution will become more common elements that implemented in more business models and supply chains.

Before the exam and our spring break, we discussed the topic of information goods, which are commodities whose value is derived from the information they contain. This is prominent in a number of ways in our lives from the way we listen to music, experience television, or invest our money. I never really thought about this space in terms of what it means for the construction of a typical & physical supply chain.
I found it interesting when we began to discuss the aspect of the lower marginal cost and how the material cost of the second copy is practically nothing, which is far different than any physical product could ever represent. The model of music distribution during the presentation was cool to see and shows how the power of the internet can transform the way consumers get their hands on valuable goods, even if they are intangible.

During the first half of class, we discussed information goods. These goods are a type of commodity whose main market value is derived from information it contains. Examples of these include; CDs, DVDs, books and much more. Before this lecture, I was not aware how often we use information goods. During the lecture, I found the topic of disruptive innovations quite interesting. Disruptions occur when new products alter an industries landscape. Netflix is a prime example of a disruptive innovation. When Netflix first began, they obviated the need for physical stores, harming Blockbuster and the movie rental business. An industry that was based heavily on renting movies from a physical location has transformed into an industry based primarily on digital streaming. Today, we are able to access information goods through smart phones, tablets, computers, eliminating the need for physical locations.

In Week 7, we learned about how an intangible product flows through the supply chain and whether if the important factors in the supply chain before are still as equally important. There are many advantages to participate in the business for delivery of information goods. There are lower capital expenditure, location independence, device independence, sharing of resources and costs. This is mainly for the reason why businesses are moving from enterprise to the cloud so it can take advantages of what the technology has to offer. Many businesses that fell behind, such as blockbuster, failed to participate in this growing movement and taking advantages of what it has to offer.

In week 7, we discussed information goods, which represent a type of commodity whose main market value is derived from the information it contains. Examples of such goods are CDs, DVDs, and books. I learned that a few unique characteristics of digital products such as DVDs are their low marginal cost, infinite replicability, fast transmission, and they have no bulky mass or volume. It was interesting to learn about the concept of disruptive technology through the example of Blockbuster and the Netflix models. Things have changed so much in a short amount of time and I wonder what will be the next big disruption in technology that will replace Netflix. It was also interesting to learn about how success is now measured differently in the music industry. In the past, the number of physical albums and records sold determined how successful an artist was, but now with digital platforms such as Spotify, YouTube, or Pandora, the number of views and downloads are the success determinants.

Cloud Computing: the practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the Internet to store, manage, and process data, rather than a local server or a personal computer.
(Francis Lewis, Vanesa Barajas, Scarlet Wu, John Robinson, Gilly Nha)

Net Neutrality: is the principle that Internet service providers should treat all Internet communications equally and not discriminate or charge differently based on user, content, website, platform, application, type of equipment, or method of communication.

Technology Compatibility: the capacity for two systems to work together without having to be altered to do so. Compatible software applications use the same data formats. Compatibility can refer to interoperability between any two products: hardware and software, products of the same or different types, or different versions of the same product.

Compression- a reduction in the number of bits needed to represent data. Compressing data can save storage capacity, speed up file transfer, and decrease costs for storage hardware and network bandwidth.
Digital Rights Management- is a systematic approach to copyright protection for digital media. The purpose of DRM is to prevent unauthorized redistribution of digital media and restrict the ways consumers can copy content they’ve purchased.
Content Delivery Networks- a geographically distributed network of proxy servers and their data centers. The goal is to provide high availability and high performance by distributing the service spatially relative to end-users.
Bandwidth- describes the maximum data transfer rate of a network or Internet connection. It measures how much data can be sent over a specific connection in a given amount of time.

Digital Rights Management- is a systematic approach to copyright protection for digital media. The purpose of DRM is to prevent unauthorized redistribution of digital media and restrict the ways consumers can copy content they’ve purchased.

Content Delivery Networks- refers to a geographically distributed group of servers which work together to provide fast delivery of Internet content. This networks allows for the quick transfer of assets needed for loading Internet content including HTML pages, javascript files, stylesheets, images, and videos.

Bandwidth- maximum rate of data transfer across a given path. It can be network, data, or digital bandwidth

Compression – size reduction of files
Digital Rights Management – Enforcing that copyright and property rights are not infringed upon.
Content Delivery Networks – a system of distributed servers or data centers that deliver web pages and content to consumers.
Bandwidth – measurement of amount of data that be transmitted in a fixed amount of time via the internet.

Net neutrality – the principle that Internet service providers should enable access to all content and applications regardless of the source, and without favoring or blocking particular products or websites.
how it relates to supply chain – It is important that net neutrality remains and continues so that businesses are able to use it freely as they wish. Without net neutrality, many aspects of the internet and online could drastically change and falter some supply chains.
cloud computing – the practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the Internet to store, manage, and process data, rather than a local server or a personal computer.
how it relates to supply chain – Cloud computing is important to the supply chain because it allows for businesses to accomplish objectives without having any physical equipment. It also allows them to record and interpret data which is a very vital component to supply chain management.

Digital Rights Management- a systematic approach to copyright protection for digital media. The purpose of DRM is to prevent unauthorized redistribution of digital media and restrict the ways consumers can copy content they’ve purchased.
Can prevent the replication of secure information in a given supply chain. DRM gives Supply Chain Manager’s ability to enure that their information is secure.

Content Delivery Networks- is a geographically distributed network of proxy servers and their data centers

This benefits SCM by having access to data and information across the globe. This gives multiple firms that are working together the ability to have real-time shared information regardless of geographical location.

Technology incompatibility- inability for software or hardware or media to communicate with each other due to differences in structure.
Net Neutrality- all data from various platforms and sources are not discriminated by internet service providers.
Cloud Computing- storing, managing or processing data over the internet servers instead of local servers or hard drives.

Compression – Files are compressed to reduce space.
Digital Rights Management – Copyright protection for forms of digital media.
Content Delivery Networks – a group of servers that work together to deliver digital content.
Bandwidth – a range of frequencies on which something is transmitted. Ex. Radio in your car

Digital Rights Management (DRM) is a systematic approach to copyright digital goods and materials. It helps prevent unauthorized distribution of products
CDN is short for content delivery network. It’s a system of distributed servers that deliver pages and other Web content to a user.
Data compression is a reducing in the number of bits needed to represent data. It can also save storage capacity, speed up file transfer, and decrease cost of storage and hardware.

Technology compatibility – The ability for two different systems to work together or not.
Net Neutrality – The idea that Internet service providers (ISPs) should treat all data that travels over their networks fairly, without improper discrimination
Cloud computing – network of servers that hosts large groups of data.

-Compression – Identification and elimination of non-value added steps in supply chain processes.
-Bandwidth: Maximum amount of data that can pass from one point to another in a unit of time.
-Net neutrality = internet service providers should enable access to all content and applications regardless of the source, without favoring or blocking particular products or websites.
-Cloud Computing: used to extrat useful big data.

Compression – production cycle time reduction
Digital Rights Management – is a systematic approach to copyright protection for digital media
Content Delivery Networks – A content delivery network or content distribution network (CDN) is a geographically distributed network of proxy servers and their data centers.
Bandwidth – a range of frequencies within a given band, in particular that used for transmitting a signal
Technology compatibility – suite of tests that at least nominally checks a particular alleged implementation of a Java Specification Request (JSR) for compliance

Cloud computing- makes computer system resources, especially storage and computing power, available on demand without direct active management by the user. The term is generally used to describe data centers available to many users over the Internet.

Net Neutrality- the principle that Internet service providers should enable access to all content and applications regardless of the source, and without favoring or blocking particular products or websites.

Bandwidth has several related meanings:

Bandwidth (signal processing) or analog bandwidth, frequency bandwidth or radio bandwidth, a measure of the width of a range of frequencies, measured in hertz
Bandwidth (computing), the rate of data transfer, bit rate or throughput, measured in bits per second (bit/s)
Spectral linewidth, the width of an atomic or molecular spectral line, measured in Hertz

compression- process of reduction of files
Digital Rights Management- is a systematic approach to copyright protection for digital media.
Content Delivery Networks-A content delivery network or content distribution network is a geographically distributed network of proxy servers and their data centers
Bandwidth- the maximum rate of data transfer across a given path.

Cloud computing – using a network that is hosted by the internet to store, manage, process, etc. information. Can access it through a device that doesn’t have to be a personal computer or server.
Net Neutrality – internet service providers should give access to anyone to view ALL content regardless of the source of data. Doesn’t block any sites or any platforms.
Technology Compatibility – the ability for two systems to work together. In this case, the internet and other technologies should have the ability to work together and share information

Compression- production cycle time reduction to still meet the demands of the consumer.
Digital Rights Management- copyright protection for digital media.
Content Delivery Networks- a geographical network distribution for data centers and their proxy servers.
Bandwidth-a range of frequencies when something is transmitted

Compression – The reduction of the size of the files without a loss of quality
Digital Rights Management – Managing and complying with digital copywriting to prevent IP theft
Content Delivery Networks – Networks of servers that are required with effectively delivering digital products to the consumers.
Bandwidth – The metric of how much digital data can be transferred.

Content Delivery Networks: system of distributed servers (network) that deliver pages and other Web content to a user, based on the geographic locations of the user, the origin of the webpage and the content delivery server. It allows users to extend their options available for programmers, specifically for “jquery” in javascript.

Bandwidth: is defined as the network’s capacity of transferring data and handling transmission. It Bandwidth enable managers to measure the network performance and judge how efficient it is. Sufficient bandwidth supports constant data flow between throughout the supply chain process.

MIS 3537
Internet Enabled Supply Chains
Due Date: February 26, 2019*
*due to the test on Feb 26, you can request a few extra days extra for submission of the beer game deliverables
We will complete the Root B […]

Test 1 will be conducted by Canvas in-class on Tuesday February 26.
Some specifics:
The test will consist of all the topics that we discussed in the class including case studies, as well as the material posted […]

In Week 5, The class learned about the bullwhip effect. The effect is caused by customers’ demand changes affecting retailers, distributors and manufacturers. This is due to the attempt of protecting themselves from stock-outs and missed orders by keeping extra inventory. The best way to reduce the effect is to collect better information and communicate better along with making better forecasts.

On February 13th, we learned about Smart Factory Logistics and how they used IOT to cut inventory costs for hospitals and what the bullwhip effect is. Nurses spend too much of their time managing inventory, which makes them inefficient because they are spending less time with patients and more time on tasks that they should not be required to do. IOT would help manage their inventory by making inventory control more automated, giving nurses more time with patients, which makes them much more efficient. We were introduced with the Beer Game to see how the Bull Whip Effect happens in a practical exercise. The Bull Whip Effect is caused when demand forecasts are not centralized from the retailers all the way down to the manufacturers. The further down the supply chain, the more variation of demand, which is very inefficient, and can be mitigated with transparency within the supply chain.

As a marketing major, this week was the first time I learned about the bullwhip effect. The bullwhip effect is when distorted information goes from one end of the supply chain to another and creates a fluctuation in how the various entities behave. The resulting variability in forecasts, orders, and inventory levels is called the bullwhip effect. There are four causes to the bullwhip effect; demand forecast updating, order batching, price fluctuation, and rationing and shortage gaming.

In week 5, we discussed the Bullwhip Effect and the impact variability has on supply chains. This effect is the distorted information from one end of the supply chain to another that creates fluctuations in how various entities behave. High variability can result in excess inventory or shortages in stock. Many causes contribute to this phenomenon such as demand forecast updating, order batching, price fluctuations, and rationing & shortage gaming. These causes can be counteracted by sharing data, breaking up order batches, and stabilizing prices. At the end of class, the Beer game was introduced. I look forward in participating in the simulation in upcoming classes.

This week we learned about Bullwhip Effect and IOT. The bullwhip effect is when distorted information goes from one end of the supply chain to another and creates a fluctuation in how the various entities behave. Also, how IOT is an important factor that would allow inventory to be automated which would, in the long run, help the nurses/ hospital efficiency.

In week 5 we learned about the Bullwhip Effect, which is a phenomenon in supply chains where small changes at the end of the supply chain lead to over reactions further back in the supply chain. Learning about this has shown the importance of making informed decisions and gaining a competitive edge in collecting data. One of the solutions to this issue that we discussed was using the same projections across the whole supply chain, which is made easier with more advanced technology. I am looking froward to seeing this being played out in the beer game next class to see how it works a little better.

The Bullwhip effect was definitely the highlight of the week. I am excited to learn more about what causes it and how companies across the world deal with this phenomenon. Big data is poised to eliminate phenomenons like the Bullwhip effects as companies and leaders begin to make decisions using data across company platforms rather than relying on gut feeling and previous years. That’s all folks, thanks.

-On 2/12, group 5 did a great presentation on the Smart Logistics Factory case and the class as a whole discussed how they used IOT to cut inventory costs for hospitals.
– We were then told to form groups of 4 for our upcoming Beer Game and we were introduced to what it entailed including understanding the bullwhip effect.
-The bullwhip effect is when distorted information goes from one end of the supply chain to another and creates a fluctuation in how the various entities behave.
-We learned more about this phenomenon in supply chains where small changes at the end of the supply chain lead to extreme reactions further in the supply chain system.
-We also learned how this can be avoided by making informed decisions and collecting data to gain a competitive advantage. One of the solutions to this issue that we talked about in class was maintaining the same projections across the entire supply chain. This is a lot easier with the implementation of advanced technology. Looking forward to the beer game increasing our awareness of the bullwhip effect.

During Week 5, I learned that the bullwhip effect is major problem for the supply chain. When there is a lack of communication and distorted information regarding fluctuations in demand across the supply chain, it can lead to large forecasting problems. This can be costly to a company. I learned that to counteract the bullwhip effect, you should create demand forecasts using the same raw data, break order batches with EDI and mixed loads, stabilize prices, and eliminate shortage gaming.

In week 5, I Learned about the Bullwhip effect and disruptions that can occur within the supply chain. There can be a large or small amount of disorated information from one end of the supply chain to the other, that creates a fluctuation on have various entities behave . The Bullwhip effect is considered the resulting inaccuracies or varabiities that come in forecasting, order placements, or inventory levels as a result of this disorated information. We learned that this can be detrimental to any supply chain. We also learned that the bullwhip effect can be caused by a number of things including order batching and price fluctuation.

This week we talked about Smart Factory Logistics and how IoT makes them more efficient. We also discussed the bullwhip effect and introduced the beer game. It’s interesting to see how the internet can help avoid the bullwhip effect like computer assisted ordering. I am looking forward to relating the beer game to class concepts next week.

Our week 5 class went over the bullwhip effect, and we saw a presentation on SmartFactoryLogistics.com. To make a long story short, the bullwhip effect is when there is a spike in customer orders which causes warehouses to increase their orders, then the distribution centers increase their orders, and ultimately the plants and suppliers increase their orders. To combat this effect, there needs to be clear and thorough communication between all members of the Supply Chain.

This week we discussed the smart factory logistics case and learned the differences between engagers, enablers, enhancers, and embedders. We also discussed how IoT makes things more efficient. We also learned about the bullwhip effect during the lecture part of class and how it impacts a supply chain.

This week, we discussed the impact of the bullwhip effect on the supply chain. While often we envision that it’s a downward stream of logistics from the manufacturer out to the salesfront. It’s important to understand that also goes upstream as well, as the retail and wholesalers have to send their best demand forecast predictions to their suppliers, who will in turn send it to their supplier, and so on. The bullwhip is a critical concept to comprehend that incorrect predictions in the consumers’ demand will cause more drastic effects higher up on the supply chain.

During week 5 class time we went over the smart factory logistics case and talked in depth about how week 4’s topic of IoT related to this case and made them more efficient. Then we also talked about the bullwhip effect and went into detail about what the effect itself was. It caused fluctuations in the supply needed and the demand from customers and as that went down the line the fluctuations got further from reality.

In class this week we primarily talked about the Bullwhip Effect which is a phenomenon in which forecasts yield supply chain inefficiencies. We also learned about Smart Factory Logistics which is an automated supply chain system, that measures product in factories. This system can order parts when inventory is low, via detectors in the factories. Then we got a brief introduction into the Beer Games.

We covered a few topics in week 5. One of these topics was the Bullwhip Effect. The Bullwhip Effect occurs when distorted info or forecasts pass through a supply chain and yield supply chain inefficiencies. This can lead to less efficient production as well as serious inventory problems. We also spent time discussing the Smart Factory Logistics case and how IoT was used to reduce inventory costs in hospitals. IoT was used to make inventory control much more automated. This made it much more efficient and allowed workers to focus on other important tasks.

In class this week, we discussed the differences between engagers, enablers, enhancers, and embedders. I learned what is a bullwhip effect is. That is a distribution channel phenomenon in which forecasts yield supply chain inefficiencies. It refers to increasing swings in inventory in response to shifts in customer demand as one moves further up the supply chain. The four main causes of the bullwhip effect are demand forecasting errors, order batching, price fluctuations, and shortage gaming. The bullwhip effect usually flows up the supply chain, starting with the retailer, wholesaler, distributor, manufacturer and then the raw materials supplier. The way to reduce it is collaborate with customers and suppliers. Another strategy to improve supply chain effectivity is through better collaboration with customers and suppliers.

This week in class we covered the topic of the bullwhip effect. the bullwhip effect can be defined as distorted information from one end of the supply chain to another that creates a fluctuation in how the various entities behave. The variability within the forecasts, orders, and inventory is the actual effect that occurs. In previous classes, we have covered the topic of the bullwhip effect but it was only touched on. I found it interesting how it was a topic that we uncovered in-depth. The bullwhip effect can have huge impacts on running a supply chain and must be mitigated accordingly.

Our week 5 class had a few key talking points; the smart factory logistics case and the discussion of the bullwhip effect. I enjoyed this case because it doesn’t just analyze the impact of technology within a supply chain, but also the growth and development of a business model, and the changes in strategy that Bossard adapted over time. The Bullwhip topic was one of the more simple concepts that demonstrate how deviated forecasting among separate links in the supply chain can create inefficiencies and cost problems. I am looking forward to round 2 of the beer game, I think it is a great learning tool and had fun in round 1.

This week we went over the Bullwhip Effect. This is an effect in which forecasts yield supply chain inefficiencies. This is caused by the high fluctuation of customer demand that leads to increasing swings in inventory. This can lead to stock-outs and backlogs if mismanaged.

This week I learned more about the effects of a bullwhip. Experiencing this through playing the beer game with my grouped allowed me to see how substantial the effects of a bullwhip can be. Having all key players of an organizations supply chain is crucial to being as efficient as possible.

Please post the names and email ids of your group members by end of class on Feb 12th as a comment to this post (only one member per group should post – multiple posts from the same group will be deleted).
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This week, the class went over ClearOrbit case study. The one point I found the most interesting was why most of the softwares adopted by companies usually fail. This is due to company employees not understanding how to use the software, the benefits that could be achieved by using the software, the efficiency the software would bring to the daily work and the frustration employees face from not knowing the functionality of the software. Therefore, it is important to educate company employees on how to use the software so the adoption actually happens. Another important topic was on RFID. There are two types; Passive and Active. There are advantages and disadvantages to both type of RFID. Companies can choose which RFID to utilize based on the requirements the company is looking for the product to meet.

This week in class we talked about RFID and the Internet of Things technology and how we continue to see it used more and more to help make our lives and business easier. RFID tags are attached to items in order to track them. For example, security tags on clothing or other items in retail stores or the chips used in EZpasses to collect tolls from cars use RFID tags. These are two different types of RFID tags. RFID in clothing tags are passive tags which are much smaller, cheaper, and must be very close to the item to scan the tag. RFID in EZpasses are active tags that are able to reach much farther distances but are battery powered. RFID is also very helpful for a business to identify, track, and locate items as they move through the supply chain.

In week 4 we discussed the WWT ClearOrbit Case and the inefficiencies that occurred within their supply chain. During this discussion, we spent quite sometime talking about enterprise resource planning (ERP). ERP is a software used to digitize a business. This software provides a common format throughout all interfaces and integrates areas such as planning, purchasing and inventory. We also discussed the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT is a system of computing devices that are not normally connected to the internet. Examples of this include; thermostats, door bells, and smart watches in the consumer setting, and machinery, engines, and airplanes in the industrial setting. The IoT marketing is continuing to grow and will affect supply chains in terms of tracking, real time visibility, autonomous vehicles and much more.

In week 4 we discussed how RFID chip technology has changed, and has the potential to continue to change, the supply chain world. Through RFID technology, there is no need to open up and individually scan every item at a warehouse/distribution center when it arrives, as a single “gate” is able to scan thousands of items at a time. This advancement in technology enables much more accurate and speedy shipping and accountability for mistakes in shipment. Pairing this technology with a database can allow a company to have near-instant updating of its inventory and accounts payable/receivable functions in the context of goods shipped. In class, we also talked about how for some companies, RFID technology is not feasible. That being said, perhaps more small-scale manifestations of the technology can be adapted to benefit businesses of every size.

This past week we talked about RFID and its implications in the supply chain world. There are a lot of benefits to using RFID, such as increased accuracy, improving inventory handling and having less stocking issues in a warehouse. I was very interested in the different applications of RFID. Even though I already knew about technologies like contactless payment systems and passport chips, I never associated it with RFID. Furthermore, some of the challenges we discussed in class of this technology include lowering the price of implementing RFID so it becomes more accessible and having to modify your IT infrastructure to be suitable for this technology. It was also interesting to learn more about the internet of things and its evolution. And also seeing how it can and probably will change the way we do supply chain, through automation, real time visibility and tracking systems.

This week we’ve learned a lot of things about RFID and the application about it. The most common using on RFID is the ezpass we used everyday. The RFID enabled more possibility on the way of shopping methods. The RFID reader consist of a radio frequency module, a control unit and an antenna coil which generates high frequency electromagnetic field. On the other hand, the tag is usually a passive component, which consist of just an antenna and an electronic microchip, so when it gets near the electromagnetic field of the transceiver, due to induction, a voltage is generated in its antenna coil and this voltage serves as power for the microchip.There is really not necessary of using cash anymore. The RFID technology will also brings the inventory management to another level. However, the price of RFID is pretty high. I am suggesting that bring the RFID cost lower so there will be more applications on RFID.

I found this weeks class on RFID’s and IoT very interesting. We don’t even realize how much we use RFID technology, I was shocked to hear that E-ZPass, something that I use almost every day, uses this system. I also think that IoT is growing dramatically. For example, smart houses. I read an article on a home that has a robot control every aspect from the microwave to the lights. This is becoming more and more popular to simplify our lives. I am looking forward to seeing how this changes supply chain and our careers as we grow professionally.

We learned about RFID technology, when it was created and how it was used then, and how we commonly used today. An example of a modern used for RFID’s are the expats system we use. RFID’s are not only convent, but also make things more efficient and less costly by tracking products with real time data. Fewer items will be lost, which means more money be made. These tags maybe be more expensive initially, but after a few years of taking advantage of all the upsides of them, it will surly pay for itself. If major companies moved to using RFID’s and making them standard in the industry, Supply chain as a whole would be significantly faster and more efficient.

Last week we discussed RFID, radio frequency devices, and IoT, Internet of Things. They are both valuable tool for a supply chain. RFID helps track inventory through radio wave emitting device. IoT is basically a network of objects that aren’t computers that share information and communicate as one large network.

In week 4, we went discussed RFID, the IoT, and the positive and negative effects of both. RFID gives supply chain managers extreme visibility by allowing them to track shipments in real-time. RFID increases the accuracy of orders, reduces inventory handling costs, and reduces losses from theft. There are some drawbacks to RFID, specifically information theft. We also learned about an interesting topic called the Internet of Things (IoT). It is defined as any device that would normally not be connected, and its allows devices to share and collect data. Overall i think there is a lot of untapped potential in these fields and I wonder how these ideas will change how the world operates.

Last week, we examined the Clear Orbit Case. We discussed some of the major challenges of OME’s MRO purchasing options. One major issue they faced was that they had too many vendors. What ended up happening was that they were forced into having to create more jobs to maintain the relationships between all the vendors. Another challenge that they faced was that when they wanted to implement a new system, their larger vendors were opposed to the idea, where their smaller ones were more ready to accept the changes. In the second half of the class, we discussed RFID and its applications to a company’s supply chain. We also discussed the challenges that companies face when implementing RFID technology.

IoT is on a fast track to become a top priority for all large firms across the world. Linking customers, suppliers, and third party distributors all while cutting costs across the board. IoT links complicated business processes with big data analytics in order to determine short term business needs and future materials forecasting.

In class we learned about RFID and IOT and the many components that go into each. One of the most important components of RFID are the tags. The RFID tags are tagged to items that the RFID system is intended to track. These tags come in many different types that each serve a different purpose. We also learned in class that RDIF and IOT and complements of each other, RFID is basically a large scale project that is a form of IOT technology. The RFID tags are a vital component of an IOT system because it enables communication and the wireless exchange of data between objects in the IOT system. But overall these are both very complex and technologically advanced systems that can be vital for many businesses in the near future.

The topic of IoT was interesting and informative. Understanding the IoT ecosystem helped me understand why there are so many technology companies and what they are trying to target. I never fully understood what the primary objectives of RFIDs were until now. Understanding that it connects to the Internet of Things illustrates the potential RFIDs provide for the future of technology and inventory management.

Two things that stood out in class today were the implementation of RFIDs and the IoT. RFIDs are an excellent way to track and analyze the movement of products along the supply chain. This has immediate effect on a company’s distribution efficiency as they have better knowledge of their inventory on-hand and transportation/delivery times. The growing use of the internet of things will also have implications on SCM as companies are better able analyze the flow and location of products within the supply chain. IoT also allows for less silo’d information within different functions on the supply chain with better use of real-time cloud storage and updates.

From the ClearOrbit case, we learned that collaboration among companies can be mutually beneficial. In addition, we found out more about the components and processes that are involved in creating an electric market. One useful tool to fully integrate a business involves ERP or enterprise resource planning. There are several layers to ERPs: presentation, logic, and data. Overall, it is a software that integrates all departments and functions across a business into a single system while still serving each department’s specific needs. Benefits of ERPs include: uniform software solution across business department; time, effort and cost savings in all functional departments; reduced inventory carrying costs; and less occurrence of errors in operations.

What stood out for me in class today was RFIDs. RFIDs can track and process the movement of freight or product from facility to facility and even be implemented in grocery stores. Amazon has concept that utilizes RFIDs readers to cut out cash registers and credit people’s accounts instantly when they take a grocery off the shelf.

These videos accurately depicted the benefits and challenges of RFID. This technology certainly increases supply chain efficiency. Data can be captured in real-time which allows companies to monitor performance and create more accurate forecasts. Additionally, there are time-saving benefits when RFID codes move from place to place. However, as we saw in the shoplifting video, RFID is also very dangerous. There are several privacy and security risks that could pose threats. Additionally, there must be a global standard and integration of these codes in order for them to move efficiently throughout the supply chain.

As seen in the elderly couple retail shopper video that IBM created, RFID has significant time-saving benefits for consumers. No more waiting in long lines at grocery stores, but simply being able to walk through the sensors and straight out of the store. One of the main drawbacks of the RFID technology is the fact that hackers can easily steal information using cheap decryption devices that are sold on eBay as seen in the, ‘How to Hack RFID-enabled credit cards for $8’ video. Anyone can easily purchase one of theses devices online and hack anyone’s credit card information just by walking past them. The security of RFID technology is definitely a large concern for consumers.

Benefits of RFID
As we watched in the videos from this week, RFID is a cool technology that allows for the seamless tracking of a variety of different products through the supply chain. This can include fashion items, large volume warehouse products and even specialized applications like in recycled plastics manufacturing where contents are exposed to extreme conditions (such as temperature).

Drawbacks
There are limitations of the technology and ability to implement. There is a significant investment required that may only be able to be done by large businesses. Depending on the type of tag, the range of the communication of a transponder will be affected. There are also security & privacy concerns, which can potentially be corrected in the future commerce.

RFID Benefits:
– RFID can all be read at once since no line of sight needed, compared to barcodes
– Data can be transferred without touching the material
– Less time spent looking for inventory
– Real time visibility and monitoring of performance
– Better forecast based on visibility
– Automatic data entry
– Reduced theft, misplacement of items and losses
RFID Pitfalls:
– Collaboration with suppliers and customers is needed
– Costly and difficult to implement
– Privacy and security concerns

Benefits of RFID:
-RFID can increase asset and inventory visibility
-Easier transfer of data & automated data entry
-Increases productivity as employees do not need to be within the line of sight of a product to find its location
-RFID can increase efficiency when combined with other manufacturing/supply chain tech to shorten processes

Pitfalls of RFID:
-Can lessen security
-Can have high setup and implementation costs
-Range of tags can vary
-RFID is not always reliable
-Interference with other technology in close proximity can be an issue

RFID can be very beneficial to larger companies who can afford to invest. Through logistics RFID can help keep track of products and improve order accuracy through radio waves that capture information attached to an object. Some of RFID’s drawbacks include high start up costs for smaller companies

The benefits of RFID:
– Data is captured in real time which allows companies to monitor their performance closely and improve where needed
– Companies are better able to forecast for the future which will allow for more visibility in the long term
– Saves time when managing and tracking the inventory that is moving around from factory to factory
– Data being captured can be instantaneously transferred into databases without any additional steps necessary
The pitfalls of RFID:
– Hackers are more enabled when it comes to stealing personal information off of the internet
– Hard to invest in such advanced and efficient technology unless the company already has a stable fund and cash flow
– Customers and business have security concerns which could lead to liability issues if not handled properly

A pro of RFID that it eliminates having to manual scan labels and codes. It also increases efficiency in the workplace and can potentially have a huge impact on labor cost savings. And by providing real time updates, RFID increases warehouse visibility. A major con of RFID is that it will of course have a relatively large capital requirement. You also have to consider the environment in which you are using RDIF tags because of radiation.

RFID can help supply chain increase its efficiency drastically, It can keep track of inventory levels without any field visit, and it is less likely to incur mistakes compares to have someone count the inventory,
However, there are also disadvantages…

Benefits
Enhancing tracking and inventory management capabilities of SKUs
Scanning technology, instant access to IoT
In turn, this helps make assets visible
Employee productivity is increased because time is used more effectively
Theft and loss prevention
Pitfalls
Expensive to implement
If implementation fails, the implications are very negative. The opposite effects of RFID benefits will occur. Employees will be frustrated, and asset visibility will be a mess
Data management isn’t easy. Specialists may need to be hired
Incompatibility issues transnationally
If the industry using RFID uses metals and radio frequencies, RFID may be ineffective.

I was very interested in our discussion today about the potential supply chain implications of Amazon’s anticipatory shipping 10 years in the future. I had never heard of the Amazon locks that Amazon has proposed to use and I am curious to research more into this technology. The key things I learned are the differences between traditional pipeline models that are very linear and inward looking compared to platform models which are centered around a common platform that all the entities in the supply chain have access to. The digitization of these platforms creates real-time visibility and more efficient supply chains. I also learned that there are three different types of Emarketplaces in which companies operate: vertical, horizontal, and branded private marketplaces. There are also multiple factors that are critical to the success of eMarketplaces, the most important of which in my opinion is that of a well thought-out business model that will be sustainable in the long-run.

In this weeks discussion about electronic marketplaces, we learned about the three different types of eMarketplaces; Vertical, Horizontal, and Branded Private. A Vertical eMarketplace focuses on one industry, for example, the retail industry. A Horizontal eMarketplace provides related services. A Branded Private eMarketplace is a big organization’s exclusive eMarketplace. All types of eMarketplaces make shopping for consumers easier by providing them a one-stop shop for related products.

– This week I learned about how Dell is a good example of both push and pull strategy, where
Pull: Between Dell and Customer (Dell only makes the computer after the order is made)
Push: Between Supplier and Dell
Hence, Dell acts as a pull-push boundary in this example and tries to be responsive while being low cost
– I also learned that the longest Customer Service call World record is about about 10 hours! My longest customer service call lasted 45 mins and I was already very annoyed!
– Finally, I learned about what marketplaces are, how electronic marketplaces serve as platforms, and what benefits and challenges they bring. E-marketplaces form and sustain relationships, but may involve a high level of management complexity.

-Amazon discussion
I really enjoyed our class discussion involving Amazon’s idea to use predictive analytics to offer anticipatory shipping. As a supply chain major, I had many questions involving shipping, fulfillment, and inventory. Challenges arise if the predictive analytics fails and customers are shipped products they do not need. Also, if successful, this idea can results in disruption in product shipping, fulfillment, and logistics for many industries. Other brands are going to want to keep up with Amazon’s innovation, which will most likely be costly and time-consuming. This form of innovation will create a shift from forward logistics to reverse logistics.

I learned about the company Zappos and how the company was able to gain success. It was interesting to learn that Zappos also adopted the robot system that Amazon also utilizes along with why having a supply chain platform is better than the regular supply chain system. The platform allows all the players in the field to gain access to information whereas, the regular supply chain system makes it harder for everyone involved to have access to information. Also, by utilizing the internet, businesses gain a bigger advantage since by having an internet platform, consumers are able to browse all the products being offered and easily choose what they would like to purchase.

What I found most interesting during our third class meeting was the importance of marketplaces within an economy. Previously, I hadn’t really thought much about how important the role of the marketplace is. It is a common ground for buyers and sellers that allows both sides to have nearly even position of power. There are many marketplaces that exist currently and more and more continue to develop. The evolution itself of the electronic marketplace was another interesting point that we discussed in class. I also enjoyed the categorization of the market places: vertical, horizontal, and branded.

My first take away from this class is for I was really impressed on how Amazon managed their delivery methods. The Amazon locker is successful in someways. It avoids the risk to lost the package during the transit time. Amazon is leading on this market right now in the US. The types of eCommerce bought my attention as well. Before I didn’t know there are series types of eCommerce. Such as vertical eMarketplaces and horizontal eMarketplaces. The business model really changed a lot during past years. I cannot believe how the longest call center needs to wait for 10 hours. That’s really impressive. The longest line I’ve ever waiting is about 2 hours. The long waiting time really drives me crazy. By the way, our group did the Zappos Case. We really did a good job on that. I appreciate the effort that our group made towards the class.

The main things I learned in Week 3 were the difference between platforms and pipelines, and the basic functions of an e-marketplace, or electronic marketplace. I enjoyed the conversation regarding the new e-store that Amazon will be opening, as it truly gives e-marketplaces a new definition. Before attending this class, I was unaware of the importance behind the type of marketplace.

This weeks class was extremely interesting and I really enjoyed the conversations of the future of Supply Chains. I took away different potential services of supply chains like Amazon’s possible hovering distribution center. I also was intrigued by the concept of automatic deliveries even without physical purchases. Although, I don’t think that will work I do believe that subscription services for Amazon sending bi-weekly products will be becoming very common in the future.

Last week we discussed E-marktetplaces and their rise to prominence and core capabilities. E-marktetplaces connect organizations from anywhere and act as a space for exchange. They allow companies to expand their outreach and brand. E-marketplaces can be vertical, within one industry, horizonatal, across related services, or branded private marketplace, where a large organization sets up a private market place like Amazon. They make selling easier.

Some of the main things I learned in Week 3 class was a little bit more about push vs pull supply chain and the companies in which incorporate them; as well as the push-pull boundary. It was interesting to discuss Amazon’s anticipatory shipping and where it may be in the upcoming years and how it could potentially be integrated into our lives and what we want, In Week 3 we also discussed electronic marketplaces such as how the largest hotel company in the world does not own any rooms (AirBnb); as well as the largest taxi company does not own any taxis (Uber). Towards the end of the lesson we also discussed Pipeline vs Platform, and how pipelines own and control their own resources or are inward looking, while platforms are outward looking.

In Week 3, we learned about eMarketplaces. After understanding the concept of an eMarketplace and the use of platforms, we discussed critical success factors of the marketplace. For example, it is crucial to build key capabilities and relationships. There must be a range of value-added and transactional services available to the user. Furthermore, long-term viability is critical; therefore, integration of processes leads to long-term success. Certainly, eMarketplaces seem beneficial due to the increases in technology; however, these platforms also pose several challenges. For example, a participant must manage high levels of complexity in order to effectively integrate processes and problems. Companies, such as Amazon, have developed extremely efficient eMarketplaces; however, it is not that simple for many companies who do not have significant upfront investments.

I was looking for this post on the course blog link, where the previous weeks were, so pardon my delay in posting.

I learned the difference between, and solid examples of, a push vs pull supply chain, and particularly in the context of the Zappos case and Crocs case. Clearly, a company must pay careful attention to consumer appetite and their own competitive advantage when deciding to do just-in-time manufacturing or holding inventory. Ultimately, though, being flexible and maintaining a certain level of both push & pull seems to be the best avenue for success in keeping the supply chain operating smoothly, and simultaneously meeting customer demand appropriately.

During my last internship, I learned a lot about shipping charges, drop-ship, and the benefits of having distribution centers located near shipping carrier facilities. For the company I was working for, they were unable to offer free shipping often, as it would cut into their profit margins significantly. This was something I found very interesting when learning more about Zappo’s model, which focuses heavily on free shipping and free returns. Even though shipping is costly, offering this service for their customers proved beneficial. The case described: Customers who made use of free return policy looked at more brands and had a higher return rate; however, these customers had more net purchases.

This week I learned platforms focus on all sides of the supply chain instead of just focusing on the consumer side. An example of platforms are electronic marketplaces. There are three types of emarketplaces: Vertical (focus on one industry), horizontal (focus on function across all industries), branded (private market place, which is good because it’s backed by a big brand, but it could be biased). Some challenges that come with this topic are inter-marketplace competition, high level of complexity, sunk costs and lower margins.

Week 3 went over e-Marketplaces, specifically, we talked about what e marketplaces are, how they work, how they interact with users and each other, and what they need to do to be successful. There are 3 types of e marketplaces: vertical, horizontal, and branded private marketplaces. The critical success factors of e marketplaces are that the business model is sustainable and has realistic expectations, rapid builds key capabilities, integrates activities with stakeholders. Emarketplaces are relatively new and provide a lot of upside. I think we haven’t even scratched the surface of what they can become.